THE ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE TOURISM STAKEHOLDERS IN THE GOVERNANCE FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN TAMAN NEGARA PAHANG

Abstract

Sustainable tourism development highlighted the need for governance, and recognising stakeholder collaboration would enhance overall tourism development. Hence, this study assesses the roles and responsibilities of the tourism stakeholders in the governance for sustainable tourism in Taman Negara Pahang. This qualitative research employed semi-structured interviews to understand the interactions and involvement of tourism stakeholders in the planning and development of the national park. It was found that the national park was mainly secured by state enactment and several development and management plans. DWNP was a federal department of MNRES appointed by the trustee to administer the park. Other stakeholders were not involved in the park planning and development except for the department and consultations from experts. While some government agencies, namely the local authority and MOTAC, assisted in developing tourism infrastructure and superstructure around the national park, NGOs shared the latest conservation information and guidelines. Local community groups and tourism operators mainly managed recreational activities while providing tourists with other facilities and services. As the local community groups were affected by tourism development in the national park, they should become partners in park governance to meet their needs. This study draws the attention of government agencies to revise the existing state enactment to allow all tourism stakeholders, particularly the local community groups, to play a role in park planning and development. Their involvement in such an event may help improve their understanding of the park’s sustainability, build trust between them and improve their sense of ownership and pride.